Entrepreneurs featured at BVI fashion event

Two Caymanian entrepreneurs showcased their businesses at the Summer Sizzle Fashion and Lifestyle Weekend in the British Virgin Islands this month.

Fashion designer Olivia B. and photographer Aimee Welcome were nominated to represent Cayman at the July 13-18 event.

“I was ecstatic that my name was put forward for this amazing opportunity,” said Olivia B. “I was really humbled and excited at the same time.”

Fashion Designer Olivia B, left, and photographer Aimee Welcome traveled to the British Virgin Islands to showcase their businesses at the Summer Sizzle Fashion and Lifestyle Weekend.

For Ms. Welcome, who said she was also excited and honored, “the first person I told was my mom,” adding, “I had absolutely no idea that I would get accepted.”

According to a press release, both women were able to network and widen their knowledge of the fashion industry throughout the weekend, when they participated in workshops and events.

They both attended a photography seminar hosted by celebrity photographer Nigel Barker. “It was so inspiring to listen to Nigel Barker’s story, and to hear the stories of other people who started out where I am today, but eventually made it big out in the world,” said Ms. Welcome.

“I went as an aspiring photographer and there I met people who also had similar goals. This was my first time being at an event like this, and hopefully with all the business cards I handed out and all the people I met, I was able to make an impact by increasing my photography brand awareness.”

As a micro-business entrepreneur herself, Olivia B. encouraged others of the same sized business to “step out, ask questions, be consistent, do research and simply be in the know.”

“Knowledge is power. Don’t be afraid to take risks. Learn about your niche and specific industry. Read and listen carefully,” said the designer in a press release.

Ms. Welcome also encouraged photographers to find uniqueness and to “just keep practicing, keep learning, and keep on moving.”

“The only way to get rid of your fears is to start trying,” said Ms. Welcome.

Both women were vetted by the Competitiveness of Enterprises and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in the nomination process, and supported by the Cayman Islands Small Business Association.